Helterbrand perplexed on why Ginebra always plays better when backed against the wall

Jayjay Helterbrand sparked a late Ginebra comeback in Game Five. “A couple of shots here and there and we’re right back in the game,” he says. “But it came up short.” Jerome Ascano

TO this day, Jayjay Helterbrand is still at a loss on why Barangay Ginebra always loves to play its best when backed against the wall.

And with the Kings now on the brink of elimination in the PBA Philippine Cup semis, the 40-year-old veteran could only keep his fingers crossed the Kings will be able to rise again to the challenge.

If not, the Kings may find themselves packing their bags on the way back to the imaginary ‘Boracay Cup.’

“It’s a must-win for us the next game or else it’s Boracay time,” said Helterbrand, flashing a sheepish smile as he made a reference to a vacation destination that has become associated with teams being bundled out of contention in the pro league.

The league’s most popular ballclub again dug itself a hole after losing Game Five of the best-of-seven series against Star Friday night at the Mall of Asia Arena, 89-80.

The Kings now trail the Hotshots, 2-3, and need to sweep the last two games for a chance to make it to the finals for the second straight conference.

Helterbrand said Ginebra seemed to have become accustomed to completing a task the hard way, just like they did in advancing to the semis when they beat second-seeded Alaska twice-in-a-row.

“For some reason we like it like this. I don’t know why?” he said as if begging for answers. “It’s just the way yung team naming ganun ang gusto namin. We played better when our backs are against the wall. Parang gusto namin nahihirapan kami.